Exceeding WWS Maximum in Westland: What Now?
Do you live in Westland and is your rent increase higher than the WWS maximum (Housing Valuation and Subsidies Act)? Then you can challenge this legally at the District Court of The Hague, the court of appeal for Westland. The WWS maximum is the statutory limit for annual rent increases. If your landlord exceeds this limit, the increase may be unlawful. In this article for tenants in Westland, we explain what the WWS maximum entails, how to check if your increase is correct, and what steps you can take. For free advice, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Westland.
What does the WWS maximum mean for Westland?
The WWS maximum determines the maximum annual rent increase under the Housing Valuation and Subsidies Act (WWS). This legislation protects tenants in regions such as Westland against excessive price increases. The percentage is published annually by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) and depends on the rent allowance norm and rent index.
For 2024, the WWS maximum is 3.4% for private sector rental properties outside the Rent Tribunal. In Westland, with a lot of private sector rental, this applies to private landlords. Social housing from housing associations in Westland often has stricter limits via the Rent Tribunal.
Tip for Westland: Check your situation at the Juridisch Loket Westland for local advice on private versus social rent.
Statutory basis
Important laws for rent increases in Westland:
- Article 7:900 DCC: General rent increase rules.
- Housing Valuation and Subsidies Act (WWS): Maximum percentage for private sector.
- Housing Valuation Decree: Exact WWS percentages and conditions.
For social rent in Westland, the Rent Tribunal assesses reasonableness. Private sector tenants can initiate a rent price procedure at the District Court of The Hague.
Application of the WWS maximum in Westland
Landlords in Westland may increase the rent annually by a maximum of the WWS percentage, except for improvements to the property or inflation-related costs. Always check the substantiation.
Practical examples for Westland
| Current rent | WWS maximum 2024 | Max. new rent | Proposed increase | Allowed in Westland? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| €1,200 | 3.4% | €1,240.80 | €1,300 | No (challenge at District Court of The Hague) |
| €900 | 3.4% | €930.60 | €930 | Yes (within limit) |
| €1,500 | 3.4% | €1,551 | €1,580 | No (consult Juridisch Loket Westland) |
Westland-specific: In case of exceedance, you can litigate at the District Court of The Hague (venue for Westland).
Step-by-step plan in case of exceeding WWS maximum in Westland
Follow these steps if your landlord in Westland exceeds the maximum:
- Check the increase letter: Request written substantiation with rent index and WWS data. Contact Juridisch Loket Westland for help.
- Write an objection letter: Send a registered letter to your landlord referring to Article 7:900 DCC and the WWS maximum.
- Initiate procedure at District Court of The Hague: For private sector rental properties. The court of appeal handles Westland cases. Costs are low with legal aid.
- Rent Tribunal for social rent: Have the rent price assessed if it concerns a housing association property.
- Request repayment of rent arrears: In case of success, the landlord must repay the excess rent paid.
Contact points in Westland:
- Juridisch Loket Westland: Free initial advice (search for local branch).
- District Court of The Hague: For summons and hearings.
Deadline: Respond within 6 months after the increase.
Extra tips for tenants in Westland
Document everything and quickly involve the Juridisch Loket Westland. In Westland, rent disputes are common due to the mix of social and private sector. Successful procedures often lead to repayment.